What should you know about trochanteric bursitis?

The greater trochanter is the prominent bone on the side of the upper thigh. Pain over this area may involve the bursa, gluteal tendons, or both, so the term trochanteric bursitis does not always describe one isolated tissue. Common clues include local tenderness, pain when lying on that side, and discomfort with stairs, prolonged walking, or single-leg loading. A clinician may examine hip motion, muscle strength, gait, and the lower back. Imaging is considered when the findings are unclear or another problem needs checking.

For a symptom-led overview, visit the Hip Pain page.

Early management usually involves reducing the specific load that provokes pain without stopping all movement. Change sleep position, avoid repeated direct pressure, and return to hills, stairs, or sport in stages. Rehabilitation commonly targets hip and pelvic strength, balance, and tolerance to everyday tasks. Physiotherapy can set the pace and adapt exercises when symptoms fluctuate. If progress is limited, a clinician may discuss a Cortisone Injection or Shockwave Therapy, taking your examination and health history into account.

Arrange medical review when pain affects sleep or function, continues despite sensible activity changes, or keeps recurring. Seek urgent help for inability to bear weight, severe pain following trauma, fever, or pronounced redness and warmth. Sudden weakness, numbness, or pain extending from the back also warrants assessment because the source may be outside the bursa.

Ask which tissues may be involved, what examination findings support the diagnosis, and whether imaging would change management. Discuss an exercise progression, activity limits, expected review points, and the reasons for or against an injection or other treatment.